Flowerful growth

Greenhouse Management: What makes FlowerFull a good choice for growers to add to their mix?

Fernando Villafan: FlowerFull® Smooth Hydrangea is quickly becoming a grower favorite thanks to its improved production efficiency and reduced input costs. With exceptional disease resistance, strong stems and quick flowering, this variety eliminates many of the challenges associated with growing Hydrangea arborescens. First-year flowering in the pot makes for a stronger retail presentation, while the naturally sturdy stems minimize touchpoints for pruning and handling. This not only reduces labor but also ensures plants ship better, arriving at your customers’ businesses fresh and ready for sale.

GM: What kind of timing should growers consider with FlowerFull, and how long does it take from start to consumer-ready product?

FV: Developed with grower-friendly production in mind, FlowerFull® has been extensively trialed to optimize finishing times and cutbacks. At Bailey’s Midwest production sites, a quart-sized FlowerFull® JumpStarts® liner planted in spring finishes in a 2-gallon container in 12 to 14 weeks. We had a May planting of green and growing JumpStarts® that was ready in August, and then the rest of the crop was cut back in fall and carried over for spring 2025 sales. Compared to industry standards, FlowerFull® demonstrated faster, stronger performance, especially in first-year flowering.

GM: The FlowerFull genetics create a sturdy flower-filled plant. Are there things growers can do to support those traits during production?

FV: Thanks to its naturally strong stems, FlowerFull® requires minimal support to remain upright throughout the growing season. To maintain a staged, consistent crop, we recommend a hard prune to 6 to 8 inches when active growth begins in spring to encourage a full canopy. This method produces dime-sized flower buds in just 7 weeks, leading to a well-branched, full plant that’s retail-ready.

GM: What kind of watering and feeding tips do you have for those growing hydrangeas and FlowerFull in particular?

FV: Fertilizer recommendations may vary by region and growing conditions, so we encourage working with your plant health team to develop a tailored plan. However, here’s what we do at Bailey’s Minnesota production facilities. At planting, incorporate an 8-month 17-3-10 fertilizer at 10 pounds per yard. Second season, apply a 4-month 22-3-8 at 15 grams per gallon. For watering, requirements are similar to other smooth hydrangeas, with plants receiving 1 inch per day during summer months in Minnesota.

GM: What kind of support does Bailey provide growers?

FV: Whether you purchase directly from Bailey or not, we’re committed to helping you succeed with FlowerFull® and other Bailey-introduced plants. Visit our updated Resources site for brochures, grower guides, videos and answers to your most pressing questions. Still have questions? Reach out to us — we’re here to help!